Cheriton appeared to think that the gypsy was confusing the short fellow with the tall dark one.
The hand of Miss Burden was found to be less complex. In her future there was only one man, and he was tall and dark.
“I think it is wonderful,” said Miss Burden, with a charming vibration in her voice.
The exigencies of the case rendered an early return to Hill Street necessary. Hurlingham was already forbidden for the remainder of the season. It would not do, declared Cheriton, for Ranelagh to be prohibited as well. Otherwise they would be compelled to restrict themselves to Burlington House, to Lord’s, and the Circus.
CHAPTER XXI
HIGH DIPLOMACY
OLD Lady Crewkerne’s interview with her legal adviser did her no harm. Indeed she seemed to sleep the more soundly for it. All the same her condition continued to demand much skill and attention upon the part of Sir Wotherspoon Ogle. However, the diligence of that eminent physician did not go without its reward. Whatever might be the actual condition of the patient’s throat, the vocal cords seemed to grow decidedly stronger, in spite of the fact that she was rigidly forbidden to use them.
“On no account, Lady Crewkerne,” said Sir Wotherspoon Ogle, very gravely indeed, “and upon no consideration must you have recourse to your voice.”
“Do you suppose I am fool enough to say nothing?” said the old woman, like a hoarse old raven. “If I did, you would soon have the lid on my coffin.”
Sir Wotherspoon Ogle was shocked.
Cheriton made three applications for admission to the presence, yet met with refusal on each occasion. On the other hand, his rival, George Betterton, continued in high favor. However, on the occasion of the fourth attempt, a Sunday morning, he obtained the entrée.